• Download Video
• Download Audio
• Print
• Email
• Save As PDF

"The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you"

Text: Romans 2:24

A FIRM REBUKE

Jesus had, from time to time, exercise the ministry of rebuke:-

1. Rebuking of disciples

a) For lack of faith Matthew 8:26

b) For lack of strength to pray Matthew 26:36-46

2. Rebuking of the Jews
(In particular, the scribes and Pharisees)

a) They were called “hypocrites” Matthew 23:13, 14, 15

b) They were called “fools and blind” Matthew 23:19

Paul now found himself having to speak very strong words of rebuke to the Jews.

“You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself?
You who preach that a man should not steal? Do you steal?
You who say, ‘Do not commit adultery,’ do you commit adultery?
You who abhor idols, do you rob temples?
You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonour God
through breaking the law? For ‘the name of God is blasphemed
among the Gentiles because of you’, as it is written.”
Romans 2:21-24

CONFRONTING THE HYPOCRISY OF THE JEWS

Paul was dealing with the same hypocrisy that Jesus encountered.

1. Teaching and preaching

a) It is one thing to proclaim.

b) It is another to practise!

2. Glaring sins

a) Dishonouring of God through the breaking of the law.

b) Causing God’s name to be blasphemed among the Gentiles.

These sins had to be pointed out and those responsible, rebuked soundly.